Video taping the birth of your baby can be a wonderful memento of the big day. You will be able to share the memories of your baby’s birth for years to come. An added benefit is that the tape can be shared with your baby as he or she gets older and naturally begins to ask questions about the birth.
Talk to your doctor if you want to video tape the baby’s birth. Some doctors and hospitals have a policy against video cameras in the delivery room. In this age of lawsuits, doctors fear that tapes can later be used in litigation in the event something were to go wrong with the birth. Even hospitals that allowed cameras a few years ago are changing their policies.
In some cases, video taping may be allowed, with certain limitations. For example, video may be allowed if everyone working in the room agrees to be taped. In most cases, if an emergency situation arises, you may be asked to turn off the tape.
Your doctor should be able to clarify the exact policy at your hospital. Labor is not the time to discuss the issue. Bring it up at a prenatal visit well before your due date. Having the conversation early will give you time to make arrangements that meet the guidelines of the hospital.
If taping is not allowed during the actual birth, you should be able to tape during labor and after the baby is born. Ask your doctor for clarification about when the tape will be allowed. Will it be allowed when the cord is cut? Can you video tape the baby being cleaned up and handed to Mommy for the first time? By asking for clear guidelines, you are avoiding possible confusion during the birth.
If video taping is allowed during the birth, who will be doing the filming? Fathers tend to be the cinematographer in many families. This may not be the best option during the birth. You will need your partner by your side, focusing on helping you through the contractions, not behind a camera. Consider having someone else handle the video tape. This can be any family member or close friend.
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